Well 2004 - Articles Page 31

The Tony Award-winning Hartford Stage, under the leadership of Darko Tresnjak, Artistic Director, and Michael Stotts, Managing Director, presents William Shakespeare's magical masterwork, The Tempest, directed by Darko Tresnjak, playing now through June 10, 2012 (press opening: Wednesday, May 16 at 7:30pm). Tony Award nominee Daniel Davis, best known for his recent NYC roles in Classic Stage's The Cherry Orchard, Lincoln Center's The Invention of Love, and the 2004 Broadway revival of La Cage aux Folles, as well as six seasons as Niles the Butler on TV's "The Nanny, plays Prospero. See photos of Davis and the rest of the cast on stage below!

The McCallum Theatre presents the Cirque Mechanics' critically acclaimed BOOM TOWN April 5-7. Cirque Mechanics was founded in 2004 and quickly established itself as a premiere American circus. With its unique approach to performance, inspiring storytelling and innovative mechanical staging it has been hailed as "the greatest contribution to the American circus since Cirque du Soleil". I had the chance to sit down with Chris Lashua, the troupe's founder and Creative Director, to chat about all things Cirque. Here are a few highlights from that conversation:

Northern Stage, considered one of the most prestigious and fastest-growing regional theaters in New England, presents the Tony Award winning play, Red, through April 21. Red was first produced at the 250-seat Donmar Warehouse in London in December 2009, starring Alfred Molina and Eddie Redmayne. The production transferred to Broadway's John Golden Theatre, with the same cast, for a limited run, from March 11 - June 27, 2010. It picked up six Tony Awards, including Best Play, Best Direction, and Best Performance by a Featured Actor (Redmayne), as well as three Drama Desk Awards, including Best Play.

Nigel Redden, Director of Lincoln Center Festival, today announced the Festival's line-up, which runs from July 5 through August 5, 2012. Single tickets go on sale on April 2. Theater offerings include Mikhail Baryshnikov in Dmitry Krymov's staging of a new play, In Paris, as well as Sydney Theatre Company's acclaimed production of Uncle Vanya directed by Tamas Ascher and adapted by Andrew Upton. The stellar cast includes John Bell, Cate Blanchett, Hayley McElhinney, Richard Roxburgh, and Hugo Weaving.

Northern Stage, considered one of the most prestigious and fastest-growing regional theaters in New England, presents the Tony Award winning play, Red, March 14- April 21. Red was first produced at the 250-seat Donmar Warehouse in London in December 2009, starring Alfred Molina and Eddie Redmayne. The production transferred to Broadway's John Golden Theatre, with the same cast, for a limited run, from March 11 - June 27, 2010. It picked up six Tony Awards, including Best Play, Best Direction, and Best Performance by a Featured Actor (Redmayne), as well as three Drama Desk Awards, including Best Play.

Northern Stage, considered one of the most prestigious and fastest-growing regional theaters in New England, presents the Tony Award winning play, Red, March 14- April 21. Red was first produced at the 250-seat Donmar Warehouse in London in December 2009, starring Alfred Molina and Eddie Redmayne. The production transferred to Broadway's John Golden Theatre, with the same cast, for a limited run, from March 11 - June 27, 2010. It picked up six Tony Awards, including Best Play, Best Direction, and Best Performance by a Featured Actor (Redmayne), as well as three Drama Desk Awards, including Best Play.

Following explorations of such jazz masters as Coltrane, Hancock, Monk and Tyner, the adventurous SFJAZZ Collective now sets its sights on the music of the one-and-only Stevie Wonder for its visit to Segerstrom Center's Jazz Series March 23 and 24 in Samueli Theater. The SFJAZZ Collective will perform timeless hits by Wonder including "Superstition," "Sir Duke," "My Cherie Amour," "Visions," "Blame it on the Sun" and "Do I Do" as well as all-new original compositions by Collective members. The ensemble's roster includes tenor saxophonist Mark Turner, vibraphonist Stefon Harris, trumpeter Avishai Cohen, trombonist Robin Eubanks, pianist Edward Simon, bassist Matt Penman and drummer Eric Harland. Alto saxophonist Antonio Hart will substitute for original Collective member Miguel Zenon who is on paternity leave. A free Preview Talk with Bubba Jackson, host of Jazz at Six on KKJZ-FM, will take place before the first performance on March 23 at 6:30 p.m. in Samueli Theater.

Actor and singer Gavin Creel has appeared in THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and the 2009 revival of HAIR and on Broadway, as well as PROMETHEUS BOUND at a.r.t. in Cambridge, MA., the 2004 Broadway Revival of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, The Goodman Theatre/Kennedy Center production of BOUNCE, as well as HAIR and MARY POPPINS on the West End.

Actor and singer Gavin Creel has appeared in THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and the 2009 revival of HAIR and on Broadway, as well as PROMETHEUS BOUND at a.r.t. in Cambridge, MA., the 2004 Broadway Revival of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, The Goodman Theatre/Kennedy Center production of BOUNCE, as well as HAIR and MARY POPPINS on the West End.

The Carlyle Hotel has welcomed acclaimed vocalist Steve Tyrell back to the Cafe Carlyle for his seventh consecutive holiday engagement in the legendary New York venue. Playing through Saturday, December 31, 2011), backed by his swinging big band, Steve will once again offer an evening of standards from the Great American Songbook, holiday favorites, and selections from his many popular recordings in a program entitled This Time of the Year. "There is no place more romantic than New York City during the holidays," declares Mr. Tyrell. "Fortunately, I have a lot of wonderful songs to fit the occasion, and look forward to sharing them in the most romantic room in town." Managing Director Erich Steinbock says "Steve Tyrell at the Cafe Carlyle has become a holiday tradition in New York. He fits the room like a glove, and we look forward to welcoming him, as well all the guests who travel thousands of miles to catch one of his performances." Steve Tyrell: This Time of the Year will play Tuesdays through Saturdays at 8:45PM with additional shows Thursday - Saturday evenings at 10:45PM. The music charge is $105 ($80 bar) Tuesday - Thursday and $130 ($95 bar) Friday & Saturday. Dinner (required at all early performances) is served from 6:30PM. Celebrate New Year's Eve in style at the Cafe Carlyle! The following two options are available: NEW YEAR'S EVE AT CAFE CARLYLE Begin the festivities with a complimentary glass of champagne, hors d'oeurves and a performance from Steve Tyrell. Seating at 5:30 p.m. $175 per person excluding tax/gratuity, includes complimentary glass of champagne NEW YEAR'S EVE BLACK TIE GALA DINNER AT CAFE CARLYLE Enjoy a special performance from Mr. Tyrell while dining on a four-course prix fixe menu from Executive Chef Jacques Sorci and toast at midnight with a complimentary glass of champagne. Seating at 9:30 p.m. $600 per person excluding tax/gratuity includes autographed CD and champagne toast at midnight.

Modern-day master of musical theatre Stephen Sondheim is about to release the second book of his complete collected lyrics - covering mostly everything written in the last three decades and in this one so far - titled after a line from what may very well be his ultimate masterpiece, the Pulitzer Prize-winning SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE - LOOK, I MADE A HAT; Collected Lyrics (1981-2011) with Attendant Comments, Amplifications, Dogmas, Harangues, Digressions, Anecdotes and Miscellany. So, today, we are going to be taking a look at a litany of the finest moments from Sondheim's post-SWEENEY TODD musicals that are highlighted in LOOK, I MADE A HAT and perhaps discover a few of the many reasons why Sondheim's musicals - whether late-period or early on- are the best of the best Broadway has to offer - now or ever. And, what an absolutely mind-blowing list it is - and what a masterpiece of a book!

British choreographer Wayne McGregor, one of England's choreographic crown jewels, has science on his mind, a belief that it can partner well with dance, and help inspire new ideas. 'FAR,' McGregor's most recent dance, which premieres at Peak Performances October 27-30, is the product of just such a collaboration.

British choreographer Wayne McGregor, one of England's choreographic crown jewels, has science on his mind, a belief that it can partner well with dance, and help inspire new ideas. 'FAR,' McGregor's most recent dance, which premieres at Peak Performances October 27-30, is the product of just such a collaboration.

British choreographer Wayne McGregor, one of England's choreographic crown jewels, has science on his mind, a belief that it can partner well with dance, and help inspire new ideas. 'FAR,' McGregor's most recent dance, which premieres at Peak Performances October 27-30, is the product of just such a collaboration.

Today we are analyzing all aspects of last night's spectacular special presentation of the 25th anniversary of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA live from the Royal Albert Hall. This unprecedented full performance of the world's most successful entertainment staged specifically for this event was simulcast live to hundreds of theaters around the world, with Fathom proving yet again - LES MISERABLES, Sondheim's COMPANY and the Shakespeare's Globe Series, among many others, coming before - that they are the pioneers of perhaps the most exciting Broadway-related entertainment entity of the twenty-first century - live HD filming of theatrical enterprises. Over the course of the three hours of the complete musical as it has been performed on Broadway and the West End and around the world for twenty-five years, as well as a phantastic reception and encore featuring Andrew Lloyd Webber, Michael Crawford, Sarah Brightman, Cameron MackIntosh and four famous Phantoms - Toronto's Colm Wilkinson, the West End's John Owen Jones, Australia's Anthony Warlow and the new incoming West End title player Peter Joback - PHANTOM 25 is the theatre event of the year. Yes, PHANTOM 25 may very well be the most exciting and engrossing live show ever filmed and the presentation was exceedingly superb in technical aspects - and, now, the mind boggles at how utterly brilliant and breathtaking the forthcoming Blu-ray will be based on last night's performance (November in the UK, February in the US). Capturing the comedy in an enjoyable and surprising manner while still containing the menace and horror that gives it a distinct bite in the musical theatre realm (from the original director of SWEENEY TODD, Harold Prince, no less), and, most of all, arousing the most passionate and carnal of emotions in any willing and ready viewer. And so much more. PHANTOM 25 is now the crowning jewel of the show's legacy - the mask on the eponymous master magician and musician's face that somehow manages to make him truly, finally complete.

In honor of this Sunday's once-in-a-lifetime worldwide live movie theater showing of the 25th anniversary celebration of Andrew Lloyd Webber's PHANTOM OF THE OPERA by Fathom - the same company who recently brought us LES MISERABLES, Stephen Sondheim's COMPANY, and Shakespeare's Globe Series, among others - today we are going to take a look at many of the various aspects of the world's most successful entertainment as it swings like a wonton chandelier into cinemas worldwide direct from the Royal Albert Hall for the next two weeks. By going back and revisiting the hallowed origins of the haunting operatic musical - Hal Prince, Michael Crawford and Sarah Brightman included - as well as a look at the various iterations of the show since its inception - such as the 2004 film version, PHANTOM VEGAS and the musical sequel, LOVE NEVER DIES - perhaps we, too, can bring back the music and memories and magical moments of so many years ago - 25 to be exact - with this special spotlight of illumination on all aspects of what makes PHANTOM a sensation, now and forever.

The Board of Directors of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Association announced today at their Annual Board Meeting the extension of David Bohnett's term as Chairman. Bohnett, who joined the Philharmonic Board in January 2004, became the Chairman in October 2008 for a three-year term, set to expire this year.

Since 2004, GRAMMY®-winning guitarist Earl Klugh has been bringing world-renowned artists together with jazz enthusiasts for his one-of-a-kind weekend getaways at 2 Five-Star, Five-Diamond properties; The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, and The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, South Carolina.

Since 2004, GRAMMY®-winning guitarist Earl Klugh has been bringing world-renowned artists together with jazz enthusiasts for his one-of-a-kind weekend getaways at 2 Five-Star, Five-Diamond properties; The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, and The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, South Carolina.

Our first guest is Gavin Creel, a two time Tony nominee for HAIR and THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE. Creel was also seen in the 2004 Broadway Revival of LA CAGE AUX FOLLES, The Goodman Theatre/Kennedy Center production of BOUNCE, as well as HAIR and MARY POPPINS on the West End. In addition to his work in the theatre, Creel has built up a loyal fan base playing his original music to sold-out crowds across the country and at such New York hot spots as Irving Plaza, Joe's Pub, Symphony Space and Arlene's Grocery. His debut pop album "GOODTIMENATION," and intimate follow-up EP, "Quiet," were both written and recorded with long time collaborator, Robbie Roth. BroadwayWorld.com is thrilled to announce that Creel is putting the finishing touches on his third studio album that will be released this spring! Gavin joins Seth Rudetsky to make his Provincetown concert debut next week as part of the Broadway At The Art House series, Saturday, August 27th at 9pm and Sunday, August 28th at 7:30pm.

The Harris Theater for Music and Dance today announced its full Harris Theater Presents 2011-2012 season, offering Chicago audiences a ground-breaking collection of innovative, culturally diverse programming by the world's finest musicians and dance companies, as well as Harris' signature collaborations with Chicago's leading dance and music institutions.

With a show as well-known worldwide as LES MISÉRABLES, casting is of the utmost importance. Though West End star Alfie Boe was long reported to be Cameron Mackintosh's first choice to play the iconic role of Jean Valjean in the long-anticipated film, Hugh Jackman is now in talks for the role.

The Phoenix Theatre of Indianapolis announces Avenue Q, opening June 2 and playing through July 10, 2011 on the Phoenix Mainstage. Avenue Q, with music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx and original story by Jeff Whitty, opened off-Broadway at the Vineyard Theatre in March 2003, where it gained rave reviews, and was extended four times. The Phoenix is the first regional, professional theatre to produce Avenue Q, winner of the 2004 Tony for Best Musical, with a local professional cast and crew.

Today marks the last episode review of the second season of Fox's hit musical dramedy series GLEE and I'm sure that many will agree with me that last night's show was as good a Season Two send-off as could have possibly been expected from Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, Ian Brennan and company given what has gone on this year so far. Besides the sights and sounds of the dramatic NYC wrap-up, the Broadway babies amongst the gleeks were treated to the extended returns of fan favorite Jonathan Groff and new cast member Cheyenne Jackson, in addition to a characteristically fabulous cameo by Broadway legend Patti LuPone - and the grand return of international singing sensation - as well as a participant in this column; in addition to Mr. Groff, yesterday (and, coming up: Mr. Jackson) - the big-voiced-diva known as Charice. While original songs dominated the episode, we were also treated to a mash-up of Madonna's 'I Love New York' and the Leonard Bernstein/Betty Comden/Adolph Green ON THE TOWN anthem 'New York, New York' (and a sample of the Kander & Ebb version elsewhere in the episode, 'for good' measure), in addition to one of the musical highlights of not only this episode, but all of Season Two - a song which was incidentally premiered in this very column on BroadwayWorld last week: Lea Michele and Chris Colfer putting their own spin on the WICKED curtain song 'For Good' on the very stage of the Gershwin Theater where the Broadway smash plays eight times a week - and has since 2004 - right where fellow GLEE guest stars Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel first sang it. While the musical quotient on GLEE is always appreciably entertaining - with few exceptions - this season has been significantly more expansive and varied in its storytelling style, so the question of the season undoubtedly is: was it all wrapped up satisfactorily? Well, we'll just have to stack it all up side-by-side-by-side-by-side and see, now, won't we? But, one thing is crystal clear: GLEE in NYC was all it was cracked up - and built up - to be. The big pay-off. Finally. Or, make that more to the point: finale.

The Lion King roared back into Toronto Wednesday night, where it opened for a very limited run at The Princess of Wales Theatre. The show has been a hit in the city before, enjoying a four year run in early 2000 before leaving in 2004. BWW had the opportunity to talk with Associate Director John Stefaniuk about what is has been like bringing this show to his hometown of Toronto.